The day Clara came by, the stitches on my head were removed right on schedule. The doctor told me I could be discharged, as long as I came back for regular follow-ups.

Talia packed my things for me. Just as we were about to leave, Clara walked in carrying a bouquet of sunflowers and a briefcase in one hand.

"Ms. Rogers, you're getting discharged?"

I nodded. "If I stay any longer, I'm going to start growing mold."

Clara handed me the ...